Sesame Tapioca Pudding

This pudding has a wonderful nutty flavor and is creamy and delicious. It is an economical and nutritious dessert for the whole family.

Makes 8 half- cup servings.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 c small pearl tapioca
• 1/2 c water
• 2 1/2 c whole milk
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 c tahini (sesame butter)
• 2 eggs, separated
• 1/2 c sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 Tbsp sesame seeds (black or brown)

Directions:

1. In a 2 quart or larger saucepan, soak the pearl tapioca in water for 30 minutes, stirring a few times to be sure the tapioca does not clump together.
2. Add the milk, salt, tahini, and lightly beaten egg yolks.
3. Over medium heat, bring this tapioca mixture to a boil, stirring often.
4. Turn heat as low as possible and simmer this mixture uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. This step is complete when the tapioca pudding has thickened and the pearl tapioca is transparent and stops sinking to the bottom. Remove from flame.
6. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites with the sugar until creamy and light.
7. Temper the beaten whites with two or three spoons of the hot tapioca mixture. Then fold the tempered egg white mixture into the tapioca until well-incorporated.
8. Stir in the vanilla and allow to cool.
9. Serve warm or chilled* with sesame seeds on top.

Note: If you refrigerate pudding, and it becomes too thick, whisk in a bit more milk (while still cold) until you have the consistency you desire.